- Author
- Kumaran, M. K. | Mukhopadhyaya, P. | Cornick, S. M. | Lacasse, M. A. | Rousseau, M. | Maref, W. | Nofal, M. | Quirt, J. D. | Dalgliesh, W. A.
- Title
- Integrated Methodology to Develop Moisture Management Strategies for Exterior Wall Systems.
- Coporate
- National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
- Report
- NRCC-46909,
- Book or Conf
- Building Science Insight (BSI) 2003 Seminar Series. Proceedings. October 2003, Canada, 1-10 p., 2003
- Keywords
- walls | methodology | moisture | climate | evaluation | masonry | building envelope | water | wood | cladding
- Identifiers
- moisture index for selected cities in North America; MEWS (Moisture Management for Exterior Wall Systems); climate moisture loads in North America; typical design and construction practice for walls; hygrothermal properties of materials; quantity and distribution of water ingress into the wall assembly; water leakage into the stud cavity and RHT response; application to stucco-clad walls; application to EIFS-clad walls; application of masonry-clad walls; application to wood composite/vinyl siding wall
- Abstract
- Uncontrolled moisture accumulation in the building envelope reduces the structural integrity of components through mechanical, chemical and biological degradation. Damage induced by moisture includes rotting of wood studs and other wood-based products, efflorescence and spalling of masonry systems, and rusting of wall fasteners. Also, excessive moisture in the envelope may affect the health of occupants by providing favourable conditions for harmful organisms. For building occupants, building become "unfit-for-use" due to either questionable structural integrity of the envelope or to unhealthy indoor environment. In addition, moisture can adversely affect non-health and safety performance factors such as the effectiveness of thermal insulation and aesthetic appearance.